Norovirus is one of the most common causes of viral gastroenteritis, often referred to as the “stomach flu.” It spreads quickly and can cause sudden nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fatigue. Many people assume that once they’ve had norovirus, they’re protected, but that isn’t always the case. This leads to a common question: can you get norovirus back to back? The short answer is yes, it is possible to get norovirus more than once in a short period of time. Understanding why this happens and how to protect yourself can help reduce your risk of repeated illness.
For same-day norovirus treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Five Points. With on-site lab testing, digital X-rays, and extended hours, we make it easy to get the care you need, when you need it most. Walk in or book below!
Why Norvovirus Can Return
Unlike some viruses that provide long-lasting immunity, norovirus immunity is temporary and strain-specific. There are many different strains of norovirus, and infection with one strain does not guarantee protection against others. In addition, immunity after infection typically lasts only a few weeks to a few months. This means someone can recover from norovirus and then become infected again, sometimes within the same season or even weeks later.
Reinfection vs. Ongoing Infection
It’s also important to distinguish between a true reinfection and lingering symptoms. Norovirus symptoms usually resolve within 1 to 3 days, but weakness, appetite loss, and mild stomach severity can persist for several days afterward. However, if symptoms completely resolve and then return suddenly (with new vomiting or diarrhea) this is more likely a new infection, especially if there was another exposure.
How Back-to-Back Norovirus Infections Happen
Exposure to a Different Strain
Norovirus mutates frequently, and different strains circulate in communities, schools, cruise ships, and healthcare settings. Exposure to a new strain can cause reinfection even shortly after recovery.
Environmental Contamination
Norovirus can survive on surfaces for days to weeks. If surfaces, clothing, or shared items aren’t properly disinfected, you can reinfect yourself or spread the virus to others.
Poor Hand Hygiene
Norovirus spreads easily through contaminated hands, food, and surfaces. Inadequate handwashing increases the risk of repeated exposure.
Household Spread
It’s common for norovirus to spread within households. Someone may recover only to be re-exposed by another family member who becomes sick later.
How Long Are You Contagious After Norovirus?
People with norovirus are most contagious while symptoms are active and for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop. Some individuals may continue shedding the virus for up to 2 weeks or longer, even if they feel better. This is why returning to work, school or food preparation too soon can increase the risk of spreading or re-catching the virus.
To lower your chances of back-to-back infections, be sure to:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Disinfect surfaces using bleach-based cleaners
- Wash contaminated laundry in hot water
- Avoid preparing food for others for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop
- Clean bathrooms and high-touch surfaces daily during outbreaks
Get Same-Day Norovirus Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Five Points
Yes, you can get norovirus back to back. Immunity is short-lived and strain-specific, making reinfection possible, especially during outbreaks. Good hygiene, surface disinfection, and proper isolation during illness are key to prevention. If symptoms are severe or return quickly, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Five Points. Our team can provide evaluation and supportive care to help you recover safely. We're committed to delivering reliable urgent care for patients across RiNo, Curtis Park, Downtown Denver, and nearby communities. Most insurance plans are accepted and affordable pricing is available for self-paying patients. Walk in today or call us directly at (303) 758-2800 for more details about norovirus treatment or other services we provide.
